Misko padded along the quiet street, rain soaking through his fur despite the shelter of overhanging trees. He was on his way home, where a warm bed and a full dish waited, but a soft noise made him stop—a faint, distressed sound from beneath a nearby bench.

Curiosity piqued, Misko moved closer, eyes narrowing to peer through the dim light and falling rain. Beneath the bench, he saw a small, bedraggled cat curled up tightly against the cold. Wet fur clung to the thin frame, and wide, fearful eyes stared back. Misko’s tail twitched with a mix of concern and curiosity.

“Hey,” he said softly, crouching down to get a better look. The street cat flinched, pressing even tighter against the bench. A low hiss warned him to keep his distance.

Misko backed off slightly, sitting on his haunches with a gentle, understanding gaze. “It’s okay. I’m not here to hurt you,” he murmured, his tone warm and inviting, trying to soothe the frightened cat.

The rain continued to fall around them, each drop drumming against the wooden bench. Misko waited, patient, watching as the other cat’s eyes flicked warily over him. He didn’t move closer, respecting the space between them, and just sat there in the rain, his own fur damp and heavy.

“I have a home,” he said eventually, his voice soft, tail flicking behind him. “It’s warm… safe. If you want, you can come with me.” He left the invitation hanging in the air, his gaze kind and unhurried.

For a moment, there was only the sound of rain and the distant hum of the city, but Misko didn’t mind. He waited, paw outstretched in a silent offer, ready for whenever the street cat decided it was safe enough to come out.